SSC Combined Graduate Level Examination (SSC CGL)
Quick facts
| Conducted by | Staff Selection Commission (SSC) |
|---|---|
| Exam level | National |
| How often | Once a year |
| Mode | Online (computer based) |
| Qualification | Graduation in any subject (some posts need specific subjects) |
| Age limit | 18 – 32 years |
| Age relaxation | OBC:3, SC:5, ST:5, PwBD:10 |
| Official website | ssc.gov.in |
Upper age limit depends on the post – usually 27, 30 or 32 years.
Overview
SSC CGL is the biggest recruitment exam for graduates in central government offices. It fills Group B and C posts such as Assistant Section Officer, Income Tax Inspector, Excise and GST Inspector, Assistant Audit Officer, Auditor, Accountant, Sub-Inspector in CBI and NIA, and Junior Statistical Officer.
Eligibility
- Education: graduation in any subject. Some posts need specific degrees – for example, Junior Statistical Officer needs Maths in Class 12 or Statistics in graduation, and Assistant Audit Officer may prefer CA/CS/MBA/commerce qualifications.
- Age: 18 to 27/30/32 years depending on the post. Relaxation: OBC 3, SC/ST 5, PwBD 10 years.
- Final-year students may apply if they will graduate by the cut-off date in the notification.
Exam pattern & syllabus
The exam has two computer-based tiers (plus skill tests for some posts).
| Tier | Subjects | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Reasoning, General Awareness, Quantitative Aptitude, English (100 questions, 200 marks) | Qualifying / screening, negative marking |
| Tier 2 | Maths, Reasoning, English, General Awareness, Computer knowledge, and a data-entry speed test; extra papers for JSO and AAO | Decides final merit |
Some posts also have document verification, a computer proficiency test or physical standards. Check the latest notification for the exact pattern.
How to prepare
- Master the basics of arithmetic and advanced maths (algebra, geometry, trigonometry) – maths decides ranks.
- Practise reasoning and English daily with timed sectional tests.
- For general awareness, revise static GK and 6–8 months of current affairs.
- Take full mock tests in the computer-based format and analyse every mistake.
- Previous years' SSC questions repeat in style – solve them all.
Latest SSC CGL updates
No notification posted yet. Get an email alert when the next one comes out.
Frequently asked questions
Is SSC CGL tough?
The questions are not very difficult, but competition is high and speed matters. Regular mock tests make the biggest difference.
Can I choose my post?
Yes, you fill post preferences, and posts are allotted by your rank, category and preferences.
Please note: eligibility, age limits and exam pattern change from year to year. This page gives general guidance only; the official notification for each year is final.